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Rapidly progressing Alzheimers: Something else?

My mother has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, but she seems to be declining rapidly. Doesn't Alzheimer's usually get worse slowly?

Updated: 2019-04-23

Answer Section

Yes, Alzheimer's disease usually worsens slowly. But its speed of progression varies, depending on a person's genetic makeup, environmental factors, age at diagnosis and other medical conditions.

Still, anyone diagnosed with Alzheimer's whose symptoms seem to be progressing quickly — or who experiences a sudden decline — should see his or her doctor. The doctor will look for complicating conditions or factors that can cause a rapid — but possibly reversible — progression of symptoms in someone with Alzheimer's disease. The doctor will also make sure that other causes of rapidly progressive dementia are excluded.

Such conditions and factors could include:

Infections, such as pneumonia, a urinary tract infection or a sinus infection

Reaction to some prescription medications, such as anticholinergics, narcotic pain relievers, sedatives, corticosteroids and some antidepressants

Fatigue or lack of sleep

Social or environmental changes, such as moving or the presence of new medical care staff or family members

Vitamin deficiencies, including B-12, thiamin, niacin and folate

Depression

Thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism

Additional neurological conditions

Autoimmune neurological disorders and paraneoplastic disorders, which are conditions that can cause rapidly progressive dementia

Seek a prompt and thorough medical evaluation to determine the exact cause of rapidly progressing symptoms. Additional treatment may be required, and it may be possible to reduce or reverse symptoms.